Colton Hall Museum - Monterey, CA - Drew Zavala Photography - Location Spotlight

Are you searching for a distinctive location to create unforgettable memories during your photo session? Look no further than Colton Hall Museum in Monterey, CA. With its rich history, enchanting architecture, and serene gardens, Colton Hall Museum offers a captivating setting for your photo needs.

History buffs might recall that the Colton Hall Museum was the site of the 1849 California Constitutional Convention, where California ceded to the United States as a result of the Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848.

I think that the historic significance makes it a standout choice for a photo session. The museum's classic architecture and well-preserved interiors transport you back to a bygone era, which will add a unique and timeless charm to your photographs.

The museum's exterior is striking, and it can serve as a captivating backdrop for all kinds of photography styles. From family sessions to engagements, the elegant grand entrance is perfect for portrait shots or couples seeking a touch of romance.

I’ve observed many clients immerse themselves in the beauty of Colton Hall Museum's gardens, which offer a picturesque setting for outdoor photo sessions.

They plant all kinds of flowers here and change them out every season, so if you want to book another session here, you’re bound to experience a different vibe. The lush greenery, blooming flowers, and tranquil ambiance lend a touch of nature's magic to your images.

Colton Hall Museum also often offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere for your photo session. It’s not as popular as other tourist locations in the area, so we’ll most likely have the area all to ourselves.

This tranquility allows you to focus on creating authentic and candid moments without distractions. It also allows me to have more creative freedom when it comes to backdrops, photo angles, and poses!

If you’re on the fence about which location to choose for your photo session, Colton Hall Museum is a great choice. Contact me if you’re ready to book your session for this location!

Garland Ranch - Carmel Valley, CA - Drew Zavala Photography - Location Spotlight

In the heart of Carmel Valley, CA, lies Garland Ranch Regional Park, an absolute gem of a location for your photo session needs. Here are a few reasons why Garland Ranch should be your top choice for a photo session.

Garland Ranch Regional Park is open from dawn to dusk, and is a friendly place for all ages. The walking paths and bridges are all well-maintained by the staff, and there is a visitor center where you can grab a trail map.

One of the best parts of Garland Ranch is that it’s pet friendly. Your furry friend deserves to be a part of the fun! After all, Fluffy is a member of the family. It would be a crime not to include him! Dogs are allowed off leash if they are under immediate voice and visual control, and most people who come here are very dog-friendly as long as we pick up after him.

One of the most important things I look for when choosing a photo session location is the versatility. Are there enough backdrops to make it look like we didn’t stay in one spot? Garland Ranch definitely has that in spades.

There is so much to look at and do around here that it will look like our session was twice as long. It’s never failed to create an amazing gallery of images for my clients to enjoy for a lifetime.

Garland Ranch has such spectacular natural beauty that it’s irresistible. From the enchanting woodlands to the rugged canyons, this park is stunning from every angle. The towering ancient oaks create a special ambiance, especially during changing seasons.

In the fall, the maple trees around the canyon turn a jaw-dropping orange, red, and yellow. The peak colors last for about two to three weeks, so if we’re lucky enough to snag that window, we definitely should!

If you’re up for it, Garland Ranch has plenty of winding trails that we can take that lead to even more picture-perfect backdrops. This park also has a peaceful meadow for dreamy concepts, so whatever theme you’re looking for, we can go above and beyond to capture your dream photos.

When it comes to choosing the perfect photo session location in Carmel Valley, Garland Ranch Regional Park is definitely the clear winner. Its spectacular beauty, diverse landscapes, pet-friendly environment, and numerous hiking trails make it an ideal spot.

Ready to say yes to Garland Ranch Regional Park? I don’t blame you. Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns regarding this fantastic photo shoot location.

Asilomar State Beach - Pacific Grove, CA - Drew Zavala Photography - Location Spotlight

Asilomar State Beach is nestled along the picturesque coast of Pacific Grove, California and offers an unparalleled backdrop for your photo sessions. This spot is one of my favorites of all time, so I hope you love it as much as I do!

Asilomar State Beach is renowned for its enchanting 1-mile long stretch of beach. Complete with a walking trail, the rugged coastline is sprinkled with fascinating rock formations and tidal pools that always make photos pop, so no matter what happens, you’re basically guaranteed amazing shots.

This is because Asilomar State Beach has everything we need to create great composition. From the tall cliffs to the ocean spray, there’s always plenty going on to frame you and your loved ones in the perfect photograph.

Asilomar State Beach has a tranquil stretch of golden sand, too, if you’re not into the rocky coves, and I’ve created some incredibly romantic shots along the sand dunes. From one end to the other, this beach is magazine-worthy.

I’ve taken every kind of session here, from engagements to family portraits! No matter what kinds of memories you’re looking to create, I know all of the most fun and romantic places along this shoreline.

The tide pools in particular are always a hit. You’ll often find little sea critters just hanging out, and kids and children at heart always go nuts for the crabs, starfish, and clams. This sense of wonder never fails to create powerful memories for you and your family.

If you’re looking to capture candid moments, portraits, or romantic couple shots, Asilomar State Beach is the place to go. As long as it’s not raining, we’ll have an amazing time—but I have been known to protect my camera with a plastic bag before! This location is too beautiful to pass up.

One of the biggest advantages to Asilomar State Beach is that it has ample parking. Unlike many other popular spots, you won’t have to worry about hunting for a parking space and walking a long distance to have an amazing gallery.

Asilomar State Beach also is equipped with restrooms, so if you want to hang around after your session or if there’s an emergency, you’ll be able to take care of things. This easy access allows us to maximize our time together.

Ready to choose this location? Let me know! I can’t wait to start planning your session at Asilomar State Beach.